Australian Government plans $62m radar upgrade

[gf0012-aust]

The Federal Government plans to spend $62 million upgrading the controversial over-the-horizon-radar system to better detect missiles, distant ships and aircraft.

Defence Minister Robert Hill announced the upgrade of the Jindalee radar in a speech that was gatecrashed by anti-war protesters.

Delegates at the defence congress in Canberra were showered with anti-war leaflets and one protester banged cymbals and marched onto the stage singing the Grand Old Duke of York.

The protester called delegates warmongers.

Senator Hill said Australia was world leader in over-the-horizon radar technology and US officials specifically mentioned their interest in the Jindalee operational radar network, known as JORN, during recent talks on missile defence.

http://news.ninemsn.com.au/National/story_54139.asp?MSID=49a31301df46468580be1d21aa55db55

 

[ullu]

so is this missile also going to help out US during developement of the missile defense?

btw ausst is investing in new weapon systems... any reason why?

 

[Aussie Digger]

Ullu, this article refers to an Australian Air Defence radar system that has existed for 10+ years, but was only fully operational last year. It is an upgrade of the radar's capabilities, nothing more. Australia is investing in new weapon systems because the bulk of our current weapon systems are reaching the end of their useful life. The entire Australian Defence Force is facing what is termed as "block Obsolecence", meaning that basically the entire force is on the verge of becoming obsolete. Yes we are re-equipping our entire force, but only to maintain and in some cases enhance our existing capability. We have no intention of starting a regional "arms race" if that's what you're inquiring about. Many of our regional neighbours are also undertaking armaments upgrades, (Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, New Zealand, Thailand etc) and it would be hardly prudent for us not to. Cheers.